Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method of requesting retransmission of a lost data packet initially transmitted by a multicast transmitter in a network, the multicast transmitter multicasting data packets in the network, the method comprising: upon detection of a loss of at least one data packet on a data link between the multicast transmitter and a first multicast receiver, setting a timer value and arming a timer; upon detection that the timer reaches the set timer value, sending a non-acknowledgment message to the multicast transmitter via an uplink control link, the non-acknowledgment message comprising an identifier of at least one lost data packet, if it has not been previously retransmitted by the multicast transmitter and received by the first multicast receiver; and receiving a loss report message on a multicast downlink control link from the multicast transmitter, the loss report message identifying data packets to be retransmitted by the multicast transmitter in association with a transmission mode among the unicast mode and the multicast mode, wherein if a given data packet is identified to be retransmitted in multicast mode and if the given data packet belongs to the detected at least one lost data packet, then the non-acknowledgment message does not comprise the identifier of the given data packet, and wherein if a given data packet is identified to be retransmitted in unicast mode and if the given data packet belongs to the detected at least one lost data packet, then the non-acknowledgment message at least comprising the identifier of the given data packet is transmitted to the multicast transmitter without waiting for the timer to reach the set timer value.
This invention relates to a method for requesting retransmission of lost data packets in a multicast network. In multicast networks, data packets are transmitted from a multicast transmitter to multiple receivers, but packet loss can occur due to network issues. The problem addressed is ensuring efficient and timely retransmission of lost packets without unnecessary overhead. The method involves a multicast receiver detecting lost packets on a downlink data link. Upon detection, the receiver sets a timer and arms it. If the timer expires, the receiver sends a non-acknowledgment message to the multicast transmitter via an uplink control link, identifying the lost packets that have not been retransmitted. The transmitter then sends a loss report message on a multicast downlink control link, specifying which packets will be retransmitted and the mode (unicast or multicast). If a packet is scheduled for multicast retransmission and is among the lost packets, the receiver excludes it from the non-acknowledgment message. If a packet is scheduled for unicast retransmission, the receiver sends its identifier immediately, bypassing the timer. This ensures that unicast retransmissions are prioritized while avoiding redundant requests for multicast retransmissions. The method optimizes retransmission requests, reducing network overhead and improving reliability.
2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the data packets are ordered by sequence numbers and wherein the lost data packet is detected by receiving a data packet having a sequence number that is not contiguous with the highest sequence number of an already received packet.
This invention relates to data packet transmission systems, specifically addressing the detection of lost data packets in a sequence of transmitted packets. The method involves ordering data packets by sequence numbers to ensure proper reconstruction of transmitted data. When a data packet is received, its sequence number is compared to the highest sequence number of previously received packets. If the received packet's sequence number is not contiguous with the highest sequence number, it indicates that one or more intermediate packets have been lost. This detection mechanism allows the system to identify missing packets and initiate recovery procedures, such as retransmission requests. The method ensures reliable data transmission by monitoring sequence number continuity, which is critical in applications where data integrity and completeness are essential, such as real-time communication, file transfers, or network streaming. The approach leverages sequence numbering to provide a simple yet effective way to detect packet loss without requiring additional overhead or complex algorithms.
3. The method according to claim 2 , wherein the method comprises, maintaining a reception window having a bottom of window and an end of window, wherein the bottom of window is the lowest sequence number among sequence numbers of the at least one lost packets, wherein the end of window is the highest sequence number of an already received data packet plus one.
This invention relates to packet transmission in communication networks, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently managing lost packets in data transmission protocols. The method involves maintaining a reception window to track lost packets, where the window has a defined bottom and end. The bottom of the window is set to the lowest sequence number among the lost packets, while the end of the window is set to the highest sequence number of any already received packet plus one. This approach ensures that the reception window dynamically adjusts based on the sequence numbers of lost and received packets, optimizing the retransmission process. The method also includes receiving at least one lost packet and updating the reception window accordingly. If the received packet's sequence number is within the current window, the window is adjusted to reflect the new state of received and lost packets. This dynamic window management improves efficiency in packet recovery by focusing retransmission requests on the most relevant sequence numbers, reducing unnecessary retransmissions and improving network performance. The invention is particularly useful in protocols where packet loss and retransmission are common, such as in wireless or high-latency networks.
4. The method according to claim 3 , wherein, upon reception of a first data packet having a sequence number corresponding to the bottom of window, the first data packet and received contiguous data packets are transmitted to an application unit and the bottom of window is updated.
This invention relates to data transmission systems, specifically methods for managing data packet reception and delivery in network communication protocols. The problem addressed is efficient handling of received data packets to ensure reliable and ordered delivery to an application unit while maintaining optimal transmission window management. The method involves monitoring a sliding window mechanism that tracks the range of sequence numbers for expected data packets. When a first data packet is received with a sequence number matching the current bottom of the window, this packet and all contiguous received packets following it are immediately forwarded to the application unit. The bottom of the window is then updated to reflect the new position of the lowest sequence number in the current transmission window. This ensures that data is delivered to the application in the correct order while maintaining efficient window management for subsequent packet reception. The method helps prevent unnecessary delays in data processing and optimizes network throughput by dynamically adjusting the window boundaries based on actual packet reception patterns. This approach is particularly useful in protocols where ordered delivery and efficient window management are critical, such as TCP or other reliable transport protocols.
5. The method according to claim 4 , wherein if the bottom of window is equal to the end of window, the timer is deactivated.
A system and method for managing a timer in a graphical user interface (GUI) window involves monitoring the position of the window's bottom edge relative to its end position. The method detects when the bottom of the window reaches the end of the window, indicating that the window has been fully scrolled or reached its maximum displayable content. Upon this condition being met, the timer associated with the window is deactivated to conserve system resources and prevent unnecessary processing. This approach is particularly useful in applications where dynamic content updates or periodic refreshes are triggered by the timer, ensuring that such updates only occur when the window is actively being viewed or interacted with. The method may be part of a larger system for optimizing performance in GUI-based applications, where timers are used to manage tasks such as content updates, animations, or other time-sensitive operations. By deactivating the timer when the window is fully scrolled, the system avoids redundant or unnecessary operations, improving efficiency and user experience.
6. The method according to claim 3 , wherein the method comprises, upon detection of a loss of at least one data packet, determining whether the lost data packet is a single packet loss based on a filling ratio of the reception window and on respective states of preceding and next data packets, and wherein, upon determination of a single packet loss, the timer value is divided by a predetermined factor.
The invention relates to data transmission systems, specifically addressing packet loss recovery in communication protocols. The problem solved is inefficient retransmission timing when a single data packet is lost, which can lead to unnecessary delays or redundant retransmissions. The method detects a loss of at least one data packet and determines whether the loss is a single packet loss by analyzing the filling ratio of the reception window and the states of preceding and next data packets. If confirmed as a single packet loss, the retransmission timer value is divided by a predetermined factor to expedite recovery. This approach optimizes retransmission timing by distinguishing between isolated packet losses and more severe transmission errors, improving efficiency in data recovery. The method ensures faster retransmission for single packet losses while maintaining reliability for more complex error scenarios. The filling ratio of the reception window and the states of adjacent packets provide contextual information to accurately identify single packet losses, preventing unnecessary delays in retransmission. This technique is particularly useful in protocols where timely data delivery is critical, such as real-time communication or high-speed data transfers.
7. The method according to claim 3 , wherein the non-acknowledgment message comprises identifiers of all the lost data packet or packets of the reception window.
A method for improving data transmission reliability in communication systems, particularly in scenarios where packet loss occurs during transmission. The method addresses the inefficiency of conventional acknowledgment (ACK) and non-acknowledgment (NACK) mechanisms, which often require retransmission of all packets in a reception window when a single packet is lost. This leads to unnecessary bandwidth consumption and delays. The method involves transmitting data packets from a sender to a receiver, where the receiver monitors the received packets and identifies any lost packets within a defined reception window. When packet loss is detected, the receiver generates a non-acknowledgment (NACK) message that includes identifiers of all the lost packets in the reception window. This allows the sender to selectively retransmit only the lost packets, rather than the entire window, thereby optimizing bandwidth usage and reducing latency. The method may also include dynamically adjusting the reception window size based on network conditions or packet loss patterns to further enhance efficiency. The selective retransmission mechanism ensures that only the necessary packets are resent, improving overall transmission performance in unreliable networks. This approach is particularly useful in wireless communication systems, real-time applications, and other environments where packet loss is common.
8. The method according to claim 3 , wherein the method further comprises, upon detection that a set of data packets of the reception window is associated with respective elapsed timestamps: transmitting the set of data packets to an application unit; discarding the set of data packets from the reception window, and updating the reception window.
This invention relates to data packet processing in communication systems, specifically addressing the handling of data packets with elapsed timestamps in a reception window. The problem solved is the efficient management of data packets that have exceeded their valid time window, ensuring timely delivery to an application unit while maintaining system performance. The method involves monitoring a reception window containing incoming data packets. When a set of data packets within the window is detected to have elapsed timestamps—indicating they have exceeded their valid time threshold—the system takes three coordinated actions. First, the set of data packets is transmitted to an application unit for further processing. Second, the same set of data packets is discarded from the reception window to free up resources. Third, the reception window is updated to reflect the removal of these packets, ensuring the window remains current and optimized for subsequent data processing. This approach ensures that outdated packets are promptly handled without disrupting the flow of valid data, improving system efficiency and reliability. The method is particularly useful in real-time communication systems where timely data delivery is critical.
9. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the timer value is randomly drawn in a range between a minimum value and a maximum value.
This invention relates to a method for generating a timer value in a communication system, particularly for managing communication sessions or processes where timing is critical. The method addresses the problem of predictable timing patterns, which can be exploited by malicious actors to disrupt or manipulate system operations. By introducing randomness in timer value generation, the method enhances security and reduces predictability. The method involves selecting a timer value from a predefined range, where the range is defined by a minimum and a maximum value. The timer value is randomly drawn within this range, ensuring that each generated value is unpredictable and varies across different instances. This randomness helps prevent timing-based attacks, such as replay attacks or synchronization exploits, by making it difficult for an attacker to anticipate or manipulate the timing of system operations. The method may be applied in various communication protocols or systems where timing is a critical factor, such as session management, authentication processes, or data transmission scheduling. By randomizing the timer value, the system becomes more resilient to timing-related vulnerabilities, improving overall security and reliability. The random selection process can be implemented using a cryptographically secure random number generator to ensure robustness against statistical analysis or prediction.
10. The method according to claim 9 , wherein the minimum value is calculated based on a mean inter-packet time of n last data packets received, n being an integer greater than or equal to one.
This invention relates to network communication systems, specifically methods for optimizing data packet transmission timing to reduce latency and improve efficiency. The problem addressed is the variability in inter-packet timing, which can lead to inefficient resource utilization and increased latency in data transmission. The solution involves dynamically adjusting transmission timing based on historical packet data to minimize delays while maintaining network stability. The method calculates a minimum transmission interval for data packets by analyzing the mean inter-packet time of the last n received packets, where n is an integer of one or more. This mean value serves as the basis for determining the minimum time interval between subsequent packet transmissions. By using historical data, the system adapts to real-time network conditions, ensuring that packets are sent at optimal intervals to avoid congestion while reducing latency. The approach is particularly useful in high-traffic environments where precise timing control is critical for performance. The method may also incorporate additional factors, such as network congestion metrics or quality of service requirements, to further refine the timing adjustments. The dynamic calculation ensures that the system remains responsive to changing network conditions, improving overall transmission efficiency. This technique is applicable to various network protocols and can be integrated into existing communication systems to enhance performance.
11. The method according to claim 9 , wherein the data packets are decoded to build video/audio frames and wherein the maximum value is set based on a difference between a first presentation timestamp value of a frame corresponding to the data packet of the bottom of window, and a second presentation timestamp value of a currently played frame.
This invention relates to video and audio streaming systems, specifically addressing the challenge of managing data packet buffering and playback synchronization. The method involves decoding received data packets to reconstruct video and audio frames, ensuring smooth playback by dynamically adjusting buffer parameters. A key aspect is determining a maximum buffer size based on the difference between the presentation timestamp of the oldest frame in the buffer (the "bottom of window") and the timestamp of the currently playing frame. This adjustment helps prevent buffer overflow or underflow, which can cause playback interruptions or delays. The method ensures that the buffer can accommodate varying network conditions while maintaining synchronization between audio and video streams. By dynamically setting the maximum buffer value, the system optimizes playback continuity and reduces latency, particularly in real-time streaming applications. The approach is designed to work with existing streaming protocols and can be implemented in both client-side and server-side systems. The invention improves user experience by minimizing buffering delays and ensuring seamless playback of multimedia content.
12. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the data packets are decoded to build video/audio frames and wherein the method further comprises receiving a content information message on a multicast downlink control link from the multicast transmitter, the content information message associating each data packet with a frame type of video/audio frame among the following types: intra-coded frame, audio frame, predictive coded frame, bi-predictive coded frame; wherein for each lost packet among the at least one detected lost packet, the associated frame type is determined by the multicast receiver based on the content information message; wherein the lost data packets identified in the non-acknowledgment message are prioritized based on their respective associated frame types.
This invention relates to multicast communication systems, specifically improving error recovery in video/audio streaming by prioritizing lost data packets based on their frame types. In multicast networks, data packets are transmitted from a multicast transmitter to multiple receivers, but packet loss can occur due to network congestion or interference. The invention addresses the challenge of efficiently recovering lost packets by prioritizing them based on their importance to video/audio reconstruction. The method involves decoding received data packets to reconstruct video/audio frames. The multicast transmitter sends a content information message on a downlink control link, which associates each data packet with a specific frame type, such as intra-coded (I-frame), audio, predictive (P-frame), or bi-predictive (B-frame). When packet loss is detected, the receiver determines the frame type of each lost packet using the content information message. The lost packets are then prioritized for retransmission based on their frame types, with higher-priority frames (e.g., I-frames, which are critical for decoding) being recovered first. This ensures that the most critical data is restored, improving playback quality and reducing buffering delays. The prioritization helps optimize bandwidth usage and minimizes disruptions in multimedia streaming.
13. A non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon instructions which when executed by a processor, causes the processor to perform a method of requesting retransmission of a lost data packet initially transmitted by a multicast transmitter in a network, the multicast transmitter multicasting data packets in the network, the processor performs processes of, upon detection of a loss of at least one data packet on a data link between the multicast transmitter and a first multicast receiver, setting a timer value and arming a timer; upon detection that the timer reaches the set timer value, sending a non-acknowledgment message to the multicast transmitter via an uplink control link, the non-acknowledgment message comprising an identifier of at least one lost data packet, if it has not been previously retransmitted by the multicast transmitter and received by the first multicast receiver; and receiving a loss report message on a multicast downlink control link from the multicast transmitter, the loss report message identifying data packets to be retransmitted by the multicast transmitter in association with a transmission mode among the unicast mode and the multicast mode, wherein if a given data packet is identified to be retransmitted in multicast mode and if the given data packet belongs to the detected at least one lost data packet, then the non-acknowledgment message does not comprise the identifier of the given data packet, and wherein if a given data packet is identified to be retransmitted in unicast mode and if the given data packet belongs to the detected at least one lost data packet, then the non-acknowledgment message at least comprising the identifier of the given data packet is transmitted to the multicast transmitter without waiting for the timer to reach the set timer value.
This invention relates to a system for requesting retransmission of lost data packets in a multicast network. The problem addressed is the efficient recovery of lost packets in multicast transmissions, where traditional acknowledgment mechanisms are inefficient due to the one-to-many nature of multicast communication. The solution involves a method executed by a processor to handle packet loss in a network where a multicast transmitter sends data packets to multiple receivers. When a receiver detects a lost packet, it sets a timer and arms it. Upon the timer expiring, the receiver sends a non-acknowledgment message to the transmitter via an uplink control link, identifying lost packets that have not been retransmitted. The transmitter responds with a loss report message over a multicast downlink control link, specifying which packets will be retransmitted and the transmission mode (unicast or multicast). If a packet is scheduled for multicast retransmission, the receiver excludes it from the non-acknowledgment message. If a packet is scheduled for unicast retransmission, the receiver sends its identifier immediately, bypassing the timer. This approach optimizes retransmission requests by reducing redundant messages and ensuring timely recovery of lost packets.
14. A multicast receiver for requesting retransmission of a lost data packet initially transmitted by a multicast transmitter in a network, the multicast transmitter multicasting data packets in the network, the multicast receiver comprising: a processor to execute a programs; and a memory to store the program which, when executed by the processor, performs processes of, detecting loss of at least one data packet on a data link between the multicast transmitter and the multicast receiver, upon detection of the loss, setting a timer value and arming a timer; after the timer reaches the set timer value, sending a non-acknowledgment message to the multicast transmitter via a network interface of the multicast receiver and on an uplink control link, the non-acknowledgment message comprising an identifier of at least one lost data packet, if it has not been previously retransmitted by the multicast transmitter and received by the multicast receiver; and receiving a loss report message on a multicast downlink control link from the multicast transmitter, the loss report message identifying data packets to be retransmitted by the multicast transmitter in association with a transmission mode among the unicast mode and the multicast mode; wherein if a given data packet is identified to be retransmitted in multicast mode and if the given data packet belongs to the detected at least one lost data packet, then the non-acknowledgment message does not comprise the identifier of the given data packet, and wherein if a given data packet is identified to be retransmitted in unicast mode and if the given data packet belongs to the detected at least one lost data packet, then the non-acknowledgment message at least comprising the identifier of the given data packet is transmitted to the multicast transmitter without waiting for the timer to reach the set timer value.
A multicast receiver system is designed to request retransmission of lost data packets in a network where a multicast transmitter distributes data packets to multiple receivers. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently recovering lost packets in multicast communications, where traditional acknowledgment mechanisms are impractical due to the one-to-many nature of the transmission. The multicast receiver includes a processor and memory storing a program that detects lost data packets on the link between the transmitter and receiver. Upon detecting a loss, the receiver sets and arms a timer. After the timer expires, the receiver sends a non-acknowledgment message to the transmitter via an uplink control link, identifying lost packets that have not been retransmitted. The receiver also monitors a multicast downlink control link for a loss report message from the transmitter, which specifies which packets will be retransmitted and the mode (unicast or multicast). If a packet is scheduled for multicast retransmission and is among the lost packets, the receiver excludes it from the non-acknowledgment message. If a packet is scheduled for unicast retransmission, the receiver sends its identifier immediately, bypassing the timer. This system ensures efficient and timely recovery of lost packets while minimizing unnecessary retransmission requests.
15. A system comprising at least one multicast receiver according to claim 14 and a multicast transmitter.
A system for multicast communication includes at least one multicast receiver and a multicast transmitter. The multicast receiver is configured to receive multicast data packets from the transmitter and process them to extract the transmitted data. The receiver includes a synchronization module to align the received data with a reference timing signal, ensuring accurate data reconstruction. It also has an error detection module to identify and correct errors in the received data, improving reliability. The receiver further includes a data extraction module to extract the payload from the multicast data packets. The multicast transmitter is designed to generate and transmit multicast data packets to multiple receivers simultaneously. It includes a data encoding module to prepare the data for transmission, a packet generation module to format the data into multicast packets, and a transmission module to send the packets over a network. The system enables efficient, synchronized, and error-resistant multicast communication, addressing challenges in delivering data to multiple recipients in real-time applications such as broadcasting, video streaming, and distributed computing. The transmitter and receiver work together to ensure data integrity and synchronization across all connected devices.
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July 14, 2020
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